Sonicware SmplTrek —  VS  — Synthstrom Deluge

Synthstrom Deluge vs Sonicware SmplTrek: Which Sampler is Right for You?

Summary

In the world of samplers, the Synthstrom Deluge and the Sonicware SmplTrek offer unique features for music lovers. The Deluge is a powerhouse for those who want a complete music workstation, while the SmplTrek is a portable and affordable option for on-the-go musicians.

Introduction

Welcome to the exciting world of music samplers! If you love creating music, you know that samplers are one of the coolest tools to have. They help you record, edit, and play back sounds in creative ways. Today, we’re comparing two amazing samplers: the Synthstrom Deluge and the Sonicware SmplTrek. Both are great in their own ways, but they offer different features that suit different needs. Let’s dive in and see which one might be the best fit for you!

Features Comparison

Design and Build

The Synthstrom Deluge and the Sonicware SmplTrek are both designed for music creation, but they look and feel different. The Deluge, released in 2017 by Synthstrom Audible, is a sleek, all-in-one music production workstation. It doesn’t have traditional pads but uses buttons and a keyboard for control. It’s perfect for those who love a compact design with a lot of power inside.

On the other hand, the SmplTrek, launched in 2023 by Sonicware, is a compact sampler workstation. It’s designed for portability, making it great for musicians who like to create music on the go. With its 10 performance and transport buttons, it’s easy to carry and use anywhere.

Sound and Polyphony

When it comes to sound, the Synthstrom Deluge is a beast! It offers 128 polyphony, which means you can play a lot of notes at the same time. Its internal synth engine is versatile, with subtractive, wavetable, and FM synthesis capabilities. This means you can create a wide range of sounds, from simple to complex.

The Sonicware SmplTrek, while not as powerful in terms of polyphony (offering 10), still provides a rich sound experience with a 16-bit/44.1kHz sample rate. It may not have the same depth as the Deluge, but its sound quality is perfect for many music styles, especially if you’re into making beats and tracks quickly.

Storage and Connectivity

Both samplers offer great storage options. The Deluge uses a microSD card, allowing you to expand your storage space as needed. It also streams samples directly from the SD card, which is super handy for using large sound libraries.

The SmplTrek comes with internal memory and a microSD slot, giving you flexibility in storing your samples. For connectivity, it has a USB-C port, which is modern and fast for transferring files.

Both devices provide MIDI In/Out, making them compatible with other music gear. The Deluge also includes CV/gate connectivity, a built-in mic and speaker, and a rechargeable battery, making it a true standalone device. Meanwhile, the SmplTrek offers Line In/Out and Mic In, which are great for quick recordings and performances.

Sequencer and Effects

The sequencer is a key feature of any sampler. The Deluge has a piano-roll-style sequencer, which is fantastic for detailed music composition. It also includes features like Euclidean sequencing, probability, and advanced timing options, making it a favorite among music producers who love to experiment.

The SmplTrek, with its song-based and pattern sequencer, is intuitive and perfect for creating tracks without a computer. It offers EQ, Delay, Reverb, and Master FX, providing plenty of options to shape your sound.

Screen and Interface

The Synthstrom Deluge features an LCD display that’s simple yet effective for navigating its many features. It’s designed to be straightforward, allowing you to focus on making music without distractions.

The Sonicware SmplTrek boasts a color screen, which is vibrant and easy to read. This makes it user-friendly, especially for those who appreciate visual feedback while working on their tracks.

Pros and Cons

Synthstrom Deluge

Pros:

• Powerful synth engine with 128 polyphony
• Extensive connectivity options
• Versatile sequencer with advanced features
• Streams samples directly from SD card
• Standalone operation with a rechargeable battery

Cons:

• Higher price point at $1529
• No traditional pads, uses buttons and keyboard
• No software integration

Sonicware SmplTrek

Pros:

• Affordable price at $429
• Compact and portable design
• Intuitive, user-friendly interface
• Built-in effects for sound shaping
• USB-C for fast file transfer

Cons:

• Lower polyphony (10)
• Less powerful synth capabilities compared to Deluge
• Limited to internal memory and microSD storage

Final Verdict

Both the Synthstrom Deluge and the Sonicware SmplTrek are excellent samplers, but they cater to different needs. If you’re looking for an all-in-one powerhouse with deep sound design capabilities, the Synthstrom Deluge is the perfect choice. It’s ideal for serious musicians and producers who want a complete music workstation.

However, if you’re a traveling musician or a live beatmaker who needs a portable and affordable option, the Sonicware SmplTrek is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to use, lightweight, and offers plenty of features for creating music on the go.

In conclusion, both samplers bring something special to the table. Whether you’re in a studio or on the road, there’s a sampler out there for you!